Veteran Nollywood actress Omotunde Ogundimu has publicly revealed that she is battling cervical cancer, making an emotional appeal to Nigerians and members of the entertainment industry for financial assistance as she struggles with the life-threatening illness.
The actress shared her heartbreaking story during an interview with actress and media personality Biola Adebayo on the Talk to B podcast, where she opened up about the physical pain, emotional trauma and financial hardship she has endured since receiving the diagnosis in 2025.
Her emotional testimony has sparked sympathy from fans and colleagues, with many calling for support to help her access medical treatment.
Watch the full interview on Biola Adebayo’s official YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@biolaadebayo
Omotunde Ogundimu opens up about cervical cancer diagnosis
Speaking during the interview, Ogundimu disclosed that she was diagnosed with cervical cancer last year and has been quietly battling the disease ever since.
She admitted that the illness has brought her severe pain and uncertainty, saying she does not know how she developed the condition.
“I’m going through severe pain. I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. I don’t know where I got it from. I don’t look for people’s trouble; I’m an easy-going person.”
The actress explained that she initially chose to keep her health challenges private and resisted asking the public for financial help.
However, as her condition worsened and treatment costs continued to rise, she said she had no option but to appeal for assistance.
Children have spent everything caring for her
Ogundimu revealed that her children have been her greatest source of strength throughout her illness.
According to her, they have spent nearly all their earnings trying to pay for her treatment and daily medical needs.
“My children have also spent all they have. My children are now exhausting their income on me. They can no longer care for themselves, but I thank God for blessing me with my children.”
She expressed gratitude for their sacrifices but admitted that the financial burden has become overwhelming for the family.
The actress said she fears they can no longer sustain the costs associated with her treatment.
Widow and single mother of three
During the emotional interview, Ogundimu also reflected on the personal tragedies she has endured over the years.
She disclosed that she has been raising her three children alone since losing her husband in 2012.
The veteran actress said the responsibility of being both mother and father to her children has not been easy, especially now that she is battling a serious illness.
“I’m a single mother of three. I’m a widow. I lost my husband in 2012.”
Despite the challenges, she said her children have remained committed to caring for her throughout her illness.
Appeals to Nollywood colleagues
Ogundimu also claimed that she has struggled to secure acting roles in recent years despite spending more than three decades in the Nigerian film industry.
According to her, she has repeatedly reached out to colleagues for movie opportunities but received little or no assistance.
She emotionally appealed to anyone she may have offended within the industry to forgive her.
“I don’t usually get jobs. I have called my colleagues in the industry to beg them for movie roles, but none of them did.”
The actress continued:
“Please, if I offended anyone in the industry, please forgive me. I use God to beg you. I beg you in the name of this profession.”
She added that she has dedicated approximately 35 years of her life to acting and never imagined she would find herself in such a difficult situation.
Public appeal for financial assistance
Realising that her financial resources had been exhausted, Ogundimu made a heartfelt appeal to Nigerians for help.
She acknowledged that speaking publicly could expose her to criticism but said survival had become more important than fear of public opinion.
“I had refused to seek help from the public, but as it is now, I don’t have any option other than to do it.”
She added:
“I know people will bully me and some will help me. I just have to cry out for help so that I can survive this deadly disease because I don’t have anything left.”
Her emotional plea has since attracted widespread reactions across social media, with many Nigerians expressing sympathy and urging colleagues in Nollywood to rally around the veteran actress.
Understanding cervical cancer
According to health experts, cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix and is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide.
The disease is often linked to persistent infection with certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Medical professionals emphasize that early detection through regular screening significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain and discomfort during intercourse, although many women experience no symptoms during the early stages.
Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) continue to encourage HPV vaccination and regular cervical screening as effective ways to reduce the risk of the disease.
As Ogundimu continues her battle, many supporters are hoping her public appeal will generate the assistance needed to help her receive proper medical care and recover from the illness.
